Police Department outlines 2024 goals including virtual platform and crisis training

During the Hutchinson City Council meeting on March 11, 2025, significant discussions centered around the Hutchinson Police Department's ongoing initiatives and future goals aimed at enhancing community safety and operational efficiency.

One of the key highlights was the department's commitment to crisis intervention training for officers. With an increasing number of responses to individuals in crisis, the police department has successfully trained all officers in a comprehensive 40-hour course. This training is now a mandatory part of their field training, reflecting a proactive approach to better equip officers in handling sensitive situations.

The council also discussed the implementation of a virtual trading platform for the police department, a goal initially set for 2024 but carried over to 2025 due to technological challenges. The department is optimistic about launching this platform this year, which is expected to streamline operations and improve service delivery.

Another important topic was the exploration of additional supervision at the patrol level. Instead of hiring a full-time patrol sergeant, the department is considering the addition of a part-time crime analyst. This role could potentially be shared with the city’s IT department, allowing for a more efficient use of resources while still addressing the need for enhanced analytical support.

Lastly, the council reviewed the progress on the city's emergency operations plan. The police department aims to implement this plan along with initial online training and a tabletop exercise to ensure preparedness for various emergency scenarios.

These discussions reflect the council's ongoing commitment to improving public safety and operational effectiveness within the community, addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals. As these initiatives move forward, residents can expect enhanced support and resources from their local police department.